There are
several areas that commonly challenge people at their offices. They include the desk; papers and files; storage
systems; and emails.
The desk should be
our office’s “command central,” which is free of extraneous items that can
affect our productivity. Limit the top
of our desk to the items we use and need on a regular basis.
Papers and
files should be dealt with routinely so that things do not pile up. We need to have a good system for processing
mail and keeping track of important deadlines.
Basic paper management allows for easy retrieval of documents within one’s
file cabinet. A file index will help to
find a particular item in short order.
We should
also use our storage systems efficiently.
For example, manuals and catalogs which we refer to only rarely should
not crowd out our immediate work area. Aim
to have nearby only those things which are necessary to the everyday operations
of our office. The rest can be kept off
site, whether in a storage closet or even in a remote facility.
Finally,
emails often constitute another source of office clutter. If we let them, they can easily consume a
great deal of time. Instead of
constantly monitoring our inbox, set aside 2 or 3 times a day for reading and
responding to emails. Organize them as
you would regular papers. Set up
specific folder categories for emails so that you can locate them at a later
date. Use the “out of office” reply and
make the “delete” key your friend.
NAPO
Michigan has been pleased to offer these helpful hints for organizing your
office. For further organizing tips, please
visit www.NapoMichigan.com.
Submitted by
Michigan chapter Member Rita Wilhelm, Cluttergone® LLC. Website: www.cluttergone.com. 
